Memorial rugby match raises over £3,000 for chemotherapy unit

A charity rugby match in memory of Wayne Evans has raised over £3,000 for the Chemotherapy Day Unit at Prince Philip Hospital.

Furnace United Rugby Football Club over 35s and Llanelli Wanderers RFC over 35s went head-to-head on 7^th October 2023 at Furnace United RFC in Llanelli to raise the funds in memory of Wayne Evans.

Wayne passionately fundraised for the chemotherapy unit as a thank you for the outstanding care he received, even completing the Wales 5k run at the Long Course Weekend with a team of family and friends in July 2023.

Steve Williams, from Furnace RFC, said: “The fundraising was a great success! There were 700 spectators. 56 players took the pitch that day with some in their late 50s. It was a brilliant day for a brilliant man.

“Wayne was someone who always had time for others. He was smiling throughout his illness and offering support and help to so many.

“We would like to thank Vicki Himsley and family, Gavin Mathias, Steve Evans and Fraser Harries who helped organise the match.”

Marie Williams, Sister, said: “We are very grateful for the fundraising efforts of Furnace United RFC and Llanelli Wanderers RFC over 35s team for raising funds for the Chemotherapy Day Unit in Prince Philip Hospital in memory of Wayne.

“Funds raised by local communities help us to provide the best care possible in a comfortable environment.”

Nicola Llewellyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “What a fantastic effort. Thank you to all who were involved in the Wayne Evans memorial rugby match.

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”

For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk